Farm Management Software

Establish the best program for farm management using agricultural management software
By R.N. Dolgener, Special Education Teacher Today's volatile agricultural market requires that farm managers employ the use of farm management software to increase yield and limit expenditures. Small farms, especially, need every advantage technology has to offer when competing in a market where family farms are quickly being obliterated by commercial operations.

The best farm management solution these days is for small producers to use the same farm management program used by the big boys. As you delve into researching software for farm management, keep in mind:

1. Your operation's size and scope

2. Your experience using farm software

3. Budget and potential return on investment due to increased yield or production efficiency

Assess your needs: download free farm management software trials and demos

Software for managing a farm can cost a lot of money, so spend time now researching available farm management computer programs before you buy. Downloading demos and trials can be the best way to compare software options, explore features specific to your production needs and determine the best program to fit your technical skills.
Try:  Register for a 30-day free trial download of Farm Keeper. Download a demonstration of Farm Trends Farming Software to see if it has all the features you'll need.

Get specific: seek out production-driven software for farm management and planning

You may decide to implement a farm management program that involves more than one software tool. Consider building a farm business plan to set goals and assess your specific business needs before you commit to farm business software. A good business plan could even land you a loan for purchasing high-end farm management software for mobile technology integration. Explore application-specific farm software depending on your primary crop or species.
Try:  Get started with PlanMagic Farm Business Planning software, a must for anyone seeking farm credit. View a demo of Farm Files by farm management application, including chemicals, fertilizer, trucking, breeding, purchasing and selling livestock. CattleMax provides time-tested farm and ranch management software for high-yield cattle ranching and feedlot operations.

Go mobile: purchase a farm management solution integrating the latest technology

Tech-savvy farm managers want to be mobile. Contact agricultural management software dealers who can address commercial farming needs such as aerial or satellite imaging, productivity and nutrient need mapping, and on-demand GPS mobile data and desktop sync capabilities.
Try:  View an online demonstration of Farm Works Software's farm management computer programs such as iPAQ, a bundle for mobile GPS-driven farm research and record-keeping that can even help you drive your tractor better. Find a dealer in your area selling SST Stratus and Summit, farm management programs that use the latest technological integration systems in customizable format with comprehensive installation, support and training.

• Most farm and barn management software contains an accounting feature that will help you track expenses and equipment depreciation. Visit with your tax professional when trying out the different farm business software versions to determine which one best suits your operation's needs.